RTA awards contract of crossings and roads leading to Meydan project

The project spans Muscat Road, Dubai-Al Ain Road, Ras Al Khor Road and extension of Al Manama Road at a cost in excess of Dhs1bn.

The Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of Roads and Transport Authority, HE Mattar Al-Tayer stated that Meydan project includes a suggested Canal passing across Muscat, Dubai-Al Ain, Ras Al Khor and Al Manama roads. Therefore roads, crossings and elevated interchanges have to be constructed to allow for smooth traffic flow in the area; which will witness huge property and investment development.

Al-Tayer said:

"The project, which has been awarded to Avecon Co., comprises several phases the first of which covers construction of crossings extending 2025 meters at a cost exceeding Dhs1bn. This includes two crossings to allow entry and exit from Meydan project extending 710 meters, and another crossing for VIPs linking Muscat Road with Dubai-Al Ain Road, extending 1315 meters."

Al-Tayer added, "Phase II of the project, which will be put out to tender in the near future, covers construction of crossings extending 2860 meters. This includes a 440 meters crossing to elevate a section of Dubai-Al Ain Road to allow for the passage of a 4-kilometer canal. It also includes a crossing at Al Khor Road as well as inbound and outbound roads to Meydan City extending 2110 meters. A direct lane branching out of Dubai-Al Ain road towards Ras Al Khor Road extending 310 meters will also be constructed. The project also includes distinctive landscaping of all main roads engulfing the project in a way that fits with the nature of the project."

"The project of roads leading to Meydan is one of the key projects undertaken by the RTA. Its importance stems from the iconic Meydan project; which includes the biggest racecourse in the world. The project spans an area of 76 million square feet and includes an hotel, golf courses, shopping and entertainment centers, modern stables, Godolphin racing gallery, waterways, parking for approximately 10,000 cars, and a 4-kilometre canal running from Dubai Creek to the racecourse," he added.

This massive project is scheduled for opening in 2010 to host Dubai World Cup, the prize money of which will then jump from the existing $6m to $10m. Meydan is poised to continue offering services even after the end of the racing season. The facilities will be used in holding conferences, corporate meetings, whereas restaurants will serve visitors wishing to enjoy the glamorous setting of the venue. The project will be a landmark tourist destination attracting tourists from the world all over.